In the first half of 2025, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers carried out 139 search and rescue missions, extinguished 82 wildfires that burned almost 705 acres, and took part in 56 prescribed fires covering 1,514 acres. For all of 2024, Rangers responded to 362 search and rescue incidents, extinguished 122 wildfires that affected nearly 6,500 acres, conducted 60 prescribed burns rejuvenating more than 1,155 acres, and issued over 1,200 tickets and arrests.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC’s Forest Rangers bravely protect State-owned and managed lands, as well as the people who use them. Whether conducting a search and rescue call or responding to a wildfire, Rangers are always ready when emergencies strike. Every day and in all conditions, Forest Rangers demonstrate their expertise and leadership in protecting the public and State lands, serving as role models for the next generation of environmental stewards. DEC encourages interested New Yorkers to visit DEC’s website to learn how to become the next New York State Forest Ranger.”
Recent activities by Forest Rangers included public outreach, search and rescue operations, training, and land management efforts across several counties:
In Ontario County, on October 14, Forest Ranger Captain Wickens and Lieutenant Kennedy gave a presentation at Finger Lakes Community College about becoming a Forest Ranger. They discussed the responsibilities and application process. Representatives from DEC’s Division of Law Enforcement and New York State Park Police also spoke about their agencies.
On the same day in Essex County, Rangers responded to a call regarding an overdue hiker on Mount Marcy. After searching through the night, Ranger Rooney found the 18-year-old hiker from Potsdam safe but without a working light. The hiker was escorted out of the woods.
In Broome County on October 15, Rangers assisted Vestal Police in searching for a missing 86-year-old man last seen the previous afternoon. Despite using drones and K9 units, it was a neighbor who found the man, who had fallen and was unable to get up. Rangers and fire department members helped carry him to an ambulance.
On October 15 in Tompkins County, Rangers helped search for a missing 36-year-old at Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area. The search involved multiple agencies and volunteers. The subject was found deceased two days later.
In Otsego County on October 16, Rangers assisted in locating a missing hunter at Gilbert Lake State Park. The 67-year-old was found deceased in a tree stand. Rangers used rope equipment to help recover the body.
Rangers also provided training. On October 16 and 18, they taught a Basic Wildland Fire Suppression Course at the Wayne County Emergency Management Building for 18 firefighters, covering fire behavior, tactics, and equipment.
In Essex County on October 17, 13 Rangers renewed their technical rope rescue certification with the Mountain Rescue Association.
That same day in Albany County, Rangers and staff from several agencies conducted a prescribed burn of four acres at Albany Pine Bush. Prescribed burns are used to manage habitats, control invasive species, and reduce wildfire risks. These controlled burns are carefully planned and regulated.
On October 17 in Essex County, Rangers found three hikers lost near Mount Van Hoevenberg and escorted them out. They noted that hikers should carry headlamps and extra batteries, as phone batteries may not last.
Later that night, Rangers reunited two hikers who became separated while returning from Mount Marcy.
The DEC reminds the public to plan ahead before entering backcountry areas and to use resources such as Hike Smart NY for safety information. For emergencies or to report incidents on state lands, people can call 833-NYS-RANGERS or 911. Contact information for local Rangers is available on the DEC website.
